Melissa Montero joined Goodwin Recruiting in June 2021 to help businesses and candidates find the best match possible. Melissa has committed her professional life to serving the communities and people around her, and she is a passionate advocate for social justice and improving opportunities for all people. She wants to help each candidate and client be the best.
Melissa entered the working world as a Research Technician at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle after graduating from the University of Washington with a bachelor's degree in Zoology and Genetics. She helped in the study and search for new treatments for cancer, hearing loss, and Alzheimer's disease over a seven-year career in Biotech and Clinical Research. Melissa published first-author scientific journal articles and contributed to several other publications in health science before taking time off to become a mother.
In 2010, Melissa switched gears completely, pursuing her lifelong love of cooking by joining the culinary world as a line cook at Commander's Palace in New Orleans. With no formal culinary education, she threw herself into learning as much as possible from the chefs who guided her along the way. Melissa went on to work in some of the city's top fine-dining kitchens as a Sous Chef and Purchasing Manager. She also contributed to the #MeToo movement by detailing the gender discrimination and sexual harassment she experienced as a female chef.
After a series of injuries sidelined her from continuing to cook professionally, Melissa moved to the Nashville area with her family. She joined the team at Goodwin to stay connected to the hospitality industry and help be an advocate for change in the professional world.
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys raising her two incredible daughters with her husband, cooking for friends and family as much as possible, and exploring nature through camping and many outdoor adventures. Born in Iowa, Melissa has lived in almost every corner of the US, including Washington State, Miami, New Orleans, and now Nashville.